Asparagus belongs to the lily family, which also comprises of leeks, onions and garlic. Asparagus has been cultivated for more than two thousand years in South Europe. The commonest variety of asparagus found is the green one; however, you can also find white asparagus. The vegetable has several significant health benefits and it should be incorporated in your diet.

When buying asparagus, pick bright green stalks that are crisp. The most nutritious way to consume the vegetable is fresh, baked or boiled. Canned asparagus does not provide the body with the same nutrition like fresh one.

Add asparagus to your salads, pastas or juice. Asparagus can be eaten raw, although it is less common.

Make sure you wash the vegetable well in warm water before consuming. Rinse well in warm water to get rid of any sand and serve with your salad or with a dip. To know whether the asparagus is cooked, take one with a fork. In case the asparagus bends it is cooked.

Asparagus Health Benefits For Pregnant Women

Nutritionists and experts recommend incorporating the vegetable on a daily basis; given that it supplies the body with a host of major health benefits. Asparagus is not advised for people who have gout, cystitis and arthritis.

Asparagus is packed with vital minerals and vitamins. 100 grams of asparagus provides 24 calories, and is loaded with vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin B complex. Vitamin B9 is extremely important for pregnant women to prevent birth defects such as spina bifida.

Asparagus is great for pregnancy. The vegetable has large quantities of folate; it is excellent for pregnant women as well as for those who are thinking about getting pregnant. Folate is vital for fetal health and helps prevent any anomalies or birth defects.

In fact, you do not need to take supplements for these vitamins if you consume asparagus. It provides you with ample calcium, which is very vital for the developing fetus’ bones and teeth and to store the mineral for lactation.

The vegetable gives you plenty of fiber, thus staving off constipation, which is common during pregnancy.

It helps promote fertility; thus it is also of use for those who are trying to conceive.

It increases milk production in nursing mothers too.

Asparagus helps in detoxing the body as it has diuretic effects. It is known to eliminate poisonous toxins and wastes from the body. It sweeps the gastric system clean and perks up metabolism and digestion appreciably.

It rids the body of any excess water as well.

Can Asparagus Affect a Pregnancy Test?

No, consuming asparagus does not affect the pregnancy test. The test depends on the presence of the pregnancy hormone – HcG. Some people discern a strong odor in their after consuming asparagus; this is because it contains mercaptan (a sulfur compound) which when decomposed releases a strong smell..